Agricultural Innovation Research Articles

An empirical analysis of organic micro-level agricultural knowledge and innovation systems (microAKIS) in three federal states in Germany

ABSTRACT Purpose To achieve the ambitious policy goals concerning organic agriculture in Germany, it is crucial to understand which actors and institutions in the German organic microAKIS are most important to farmers and how farmers within the system share knowledge. This study explores these questions by focusing on farmers who are members of organic producer associations (OPAs) in three federal states in Germany. Design/methodology/approach Fieldwork was conducted in Brandenburg, Lower Saxony, and Bavaria from April to September 2021 through qualitative research utilizing participant observation on organic farms and in-person and Zoom interviews with farmers and experts in the organic agricultural sector. Findings This study concurs with previous studies’ findings that German organic farmers obtain and exchange knowledge, information, and innovations from a wide variety of sources surrounding their farm business as a whole; however, regarding agricultural practices and technologies, fellow farmers and OPAs are the most important sources. Practical implications Through comparing the microAKIS in Brandenburg, Lower Saxony, and Bavaria this paper explores how farmers in different states depend diversly on state structures, how in the organic sector farmers rely heavily on the private sector for knowledge and information exchanges surrounding agricultural practices and technologies, and how these networks can be improved. This enables discussions on advancing the sector and meeting policy goals by addressing farmers’ needs. Theoretical implications The microAKIS framework is advanced by engaging in a comparative analysis and bottom-up approach to identify significant actors according to farmers in the organic sector in Germany. Originality/value This study outlines the individuals and organizations that make up the organic microAKIS in Germany, which has been underexplored in the fast-growing organic sector, and utilizes empirical evidence to display farmers’ perspectives.

Northeast Bank of Brazil's Role in Promoting Entrepreneurial Innovation in Family Farming through Renewable Energy Financing

Objective: This study aims to analyze the influence of Banco do Nordeste (Northeast Bank of Brazil) in promoting innovative entrepreneurship in family farming through its renewable energy financing policies. Method: A quantitative research methodology was employed, involving a survey of 164 family farmers located in the rural areas of Rio Grande do Norte. The collected data were subjected to confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and multiple linear regression (MLR) to assess the relationships between entrepreneurial innovation, renewable energy adoption, and competitive advantage in family farming. Results: The findings demonstrate that innovative entrepreneurship facilitated by Banco do Nordeste's financing policies significantly contributes to 59.5% of the development in family farming. Furthermore, renewable energy adoption is shown to have a considerable influence, accounting for 39.3% of the entrepreneurial innovation by lowering operational costs and minimizing environmental impacts. These results underscore the critical role of Banco do Nordeste in supporting regional development and encouraging sustainable practices among family farmers. Conclusions: The study concludes that Banco do Nordeste’s renewable energy financing policies are instrumental in fostering entrepreneurial innovation and promoting the sustainable development of family farming. This emphasizes the need for increased awareness and dissemination of such financing programs to enhance their effectiveness. Additionally, the development of a framework for analyzing entrepreneurial innovation in family farming offers a valuable resource for future research and policy development.

Phases of adoption of One Acre Fund agricultural innovation among smallholder maize farmers, Bungoma County, Kenya

This study examines the adoption of One Acre Fund (OAF) agricultural innovations in Bungoma South Sub-County, Kenya, in response to declining maise production. Despite agricultural development programs aiding Kenya's economic growth, research shows low technological acquisition. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from 204 out of 9,924 OAF-registered farmers using descriptive research design. Inferential statistics were employed to analyse the different phases of adoption, with quantitative data presented in tables. The qualitative findings were analysed using thematic analysis and incorporated into the results of the inferential analysis as narratives. A situational analysis was performed to assess the status of various types of OAF agricultural innovation among smallholder farmers in the study area. Pairwise ranking was implemented to identify advanced acquisition strategies. The findings revealed that the socio-economic characteristics of farmers, such as age (p = 0.002), marital status (p = 0.000), level of education (p = 0.001), family size (p = 0.047), non-farm work (p = 0.327), and size of land (p = 0.110), significantly influenced the adoption of the OAF agricultural innovations. The study also indicated that the adoption phases were impacted by factors such as group memberships (p = 0.047), farm visits (p = 0.012), and training (p = 0.000). Based on the findings, the study recommends the implementation of awareness programs, crop insurance, the establishment of farm cooperatives, and the strengthening of farmers' knowledge systems to enhance OAF maise output and achieve food security.

Model of innovation in agriculture 4.0 processes in the department of Cundinamarca, Colombia

Innovation in agriculture plays a fundamental role in the transition of said production towards more sustainable schemes, hence the importance of its study, especially in relation to production processes. The literature shows that although several studies have been carried out that examine the variables that intervene in the innovation processes in the agricultural sector, there is a lack of studies that examine the innovation processes in Colombia. This is why the fundamental objective of this research is to develop a model that explains the main factors that are related to process innovation in the agricultural sector, using concepts derived from organizational innovation process models developed in the literature. The factors identification methodology used a sample of 1,190 Agricultural Production Units (UPA) collected in the National Agricultural Survey, incorporating only producers from the department of Cundinamarca, Colombia. With this sample, and using for the analysis the variables that are developed in the literature, a principal components factorial analysis was carried out, as well as a second-order confirmatory factorial analysis. The factor analysis shows three latent factors, among them “Innovation in Raw Materials”, “Innovation in crops” and “Innovation in management of External Factors”, which, being the most significant for the process innovation process, should be considered as fundamental part of the government's public policies to facilitate its adoption in Colombian agriculture in the future.

Advisors and inspectors for the development of organic agriculture in Italy

The advisory services play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges of the European green transition and enhancing the quality of services along the organic agricultural supply chain. However, there is limited evidence regarding the role and current working conditions of professionals supporting organic farming. The present study aims to fill this gap by investigating the working characteristics and job satisfaction levels among Italian organic advisors and inspectors. The analysis of selected variables encompassing interviewee characteristics, work activities, and satisfaction metrics provides insights into the perspectives of advisors and inspectors on their roles and working conditions. The findings reveal that while technicians generally express satisfaction with their remuneration and opportunities for personal and professional growth, they also report significant stress levels and workload. Identifying variables influencing satisfaction levels was pursued to measure the association between variables. This research establishes a foundation for developing strategies to enhance the well-being and effectiveness of organic farming advisors and inspectors, thereby promoting agricultural knowledge and innovation. One potential avenue for further investigation is monitoring agricultural technicians' operational activities at both the national and regional levels.

A stony track towards innovation in remote highland regions: agricultural intensification in the apricot sector of Northern Pakistan

BackgroundTraditional farming practices of remote highland regions are usually well adapted to the local agro-ecological and social conditions. There, introduced agricultural innovation geared towards sustainable intensification as a response to changing environments often faces multiple barriers. These may comprise limited market incentives for enhanced production, narrow pathways of knowledge transmission, and infrastructural hurdles. To quantify effects of innovation and sustainable intensification in enhancing smallholders’ livelihoods in the Karakoram Mountains of Northern Pakistan, the present study was conducted with 86 small-holder farmers. We chose interviewees who are involved in the cultivation, processing and/or trading of apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.), a traditionally important currently eroding fruit crop of the Central Asian highlands. By investigating the status quo of apricot production and producers’ innovative farming practices, we generated an intensification index based on simple agronomic indicators. Explanatory farm and framers’ characteristics, production characteristics, knowledge, and apricot management were tested for their predictive power.ResultsAlthough the data show low average profits of 3.8 US$ tree−1, we found that intensified apricot production can contribute to the provision of nutritious food and increased household income. Age and training of farmers were key factors fostering innovation, while lacking awareness of innovative practices was attributed to slow communication. Rejection of intensification was either due to low-value attribution towards apricot farming or risk aversion. Commonly adopted innovations, particularly sulfur drying, were either well integrated with traditional practices or characterized by low up-front costs and high returns on investment.ConclusionsManagement intensification may increase farmers’ incomes and retard abandonment of apricot farming and the consecutive loss of associated benefits, such as diversified farm output and improved ecosystem services.Graphical

Exploring the Implementation of Entrepreneurial Values to the Young Farmers in West Java

Objectives: The objective of this research is to study and explore the implementation of entrepreneurial values among young farmers in West Java and its relationship with empowerment programs, capital structure, self-reliance, and innovation in agriculture. Methodology: A sample of 103 young farmers from various districts in West Java participated in the study. Quantitative analysis, including descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and path analysis using Smart PLS, was conducted to examine the relationship between entrepreneurial values, self-reliance in agriculture, and innovation in agriculture. Finding: The findings show that young farmers in West Java exhibit moderate levels of entrepreneurial values, with particular emphasis on initiative and creativity. In addition, the analysis shows a positive correlation between entrepreneurial values and empowerment programs, capital structure, self-reliance in agriculture, and innovation in agriculture. The analysis further confirmed that entrepreneurial values are significantly predicted by empowerment programs, capital structure, innovation, and self-reliance in agriculture among young farmers. This study also shows that self-reliance could directly predict entrepreneurial values without capital structure as an intervening variable. These findings highlight the importance of fostering entrepreneurial values among young farmers through empowerment program intervention, providing access to capital structure, promoting agricultural innovation, and encouraging their self-reliance. Policymakers and stakeholders in agriculture should focus on providing training programs and support mechanisms that can foster an entrepreneurial mindset and skills among young farmers in West Java.Conclusion: The need to promote entrepreneurial values among young West Java farmers by boosting empowerment programs, self-reliance, and agricultural innovation with the support of capital structure access. The agricultural sector may become more robust, flexible, and sustainable, boosting regional growth and wealth. Further research should examine how entrepreneurial ideals affect self-reliance and creativity in agriculture and how young farmers might adopt them.

Innovation and investment activities in crop production in Kazakhstan based on the example of grain industry: modern approaches

Innovative and investment development of agro-industrial complex, based on modernization of technical equipment, introduction of digital technologies, and increase in investment flow, helps to increase labor productivity and create competitive products, which determined the relevance of the study. The goal is theoretical and methodological substantiation and development of practical recommendations for stimulating innovation and investment activity in crop production sector of the republic based on the example of grain subcomplex. Methods – study of statistical, economic information, systematic approach to identifying general trends and effects, graphical representation. Results – lack of modern agricultural machinery, insufficient level of modernization of rural infrastructure and access to the market, low degree of renewal of fixed assets of enterprises, wear and tear of machinery and equipment, limited influx of investments due to seasonality and high risks for investors have become the main obstacle to sustainable growth of the main indicators of this sector of economy. The authors conducted correlation analysis of the dynamics of investment in crop production and gross production, which was confirmed by strong positive relationship. Conclusions – by summarizing, the authors recommend increase investment capital in the use of environmental and green technologies, implementing training and consulting programs for farmers on advanced technologies and innovations in crop production farms, leasing financing, and partnerships with research institutes for the exchange of knowledge and experience. Joint research and experiments should become the main tools of state regulation of innovation and investment activities in agriculture in order to ensure the country's food security. Investments and innovations should be considered as a single system, on the successful functioning of which the economic recovery and stabilization of agricultural production depend.

HUBUNGAN PEMANFAATAN INTERNET DENGAN PENINGKATAN KAPASITAS PETANI DALAM BERUSAHATANI PADI SAWAH DI DESA LANGGOMEA KECAMATAN UEPAI

The dearth of extension workers in this region impedes farmers' access to information, particularly regarding the advancement of innovations in paddy rice farming. Consequently, farmers are increasingly reliant on the internet, yet only a subset of them is able to utilize it to find information pertinent to farming activities. This study aims to ascertain the utilization of the internet and the capacity of wet-rice farmers in Langgoema Village, Uepai Subdistrict, and to examine the relationship between the two. The population under study consisted of all rice farmers in Langgomea Village, Uepai District, Konawe Regency, amounting to 88 individuals. These farmers were grouped into six farmer groups. The sample size was determined using the Slovin formula with an error rate of 10%, resulting in a sample size of 32 rice farmers. Data were collected using survey techniques, interviews, and documentation using questionnaires. This research employed a quantitative approach. The data were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis using the class interval formula and inferential statistical analysis using the Spearman rank correlation formula. The research findings indicate that the Internet utilization of wetland rice farmers is in the medium category. This can be observed in the Internet utilization indicators, which include information, relationships, and sustainability, all of which are in the moderate category. The capacity of rice paddy farmers is in the medium category. Internet utilization based on knowledge, attitudes, and skills are all in the medium category. The utilization of the Internet by wetland rice farmers in Langgomea Village is found to have a very strong and positive relationship with their capacity. It is evident that high levels of Internet utilization contribute to increased capacity.

ANALYSING THE NEXUS OF WEATHER ON COTTON PRODUCTION IN SINDH PAKISTAN: USING ARDL BOUND TEST

Climate change is expected to have impacts on plants, crops, and insect pests, and pose substantial pressures to sustainable food security. This research investigates the impact of weather changes on the production of cotton crops in Sindh, Pakistan by analyzing both short-term and long-term effects. Hence by employing annual time-series data of 58 years from 1961 to 2018 to explore the causal relationship between climate variables and specifically cotton production. For this purpose the Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test was applied and was significantly stationary at 1st difference, ensuring robust econometric analysis. In addition to understanding the long-run and short-run effects, the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds test was applied. Short-term findings reveal that a 1% increase in logged annual cotton area (CA) leads to a 0.671% rise in cotton production (CP), and a similar 1% increment in logged annual rainfall in kharif (R) results in a 0.224% increase in cotton production. The long-term relationships between weather variables and cotton yields were confirmed through the Johansen cointegration test, suggesting persistent climate impacts over time. It is recommended that authorities identify and promote the cultivation of temperature variation-tolerant cotton varieties and enhance the focus on agricultural research and technological innovation. To support these initiatives, timely and farm-specific climate change information should be disseminated. Adoption of advanced, cost-effective agricultural technologies can significantly improve crop yields. These strategic responses are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of climate variability on agriculture in Sindh, ensuring sustainable cotton production and economic stability for cotton farming communities.

MANAGEMENT CONSULTING OF THE AGRICULTURAL KNOWLEDGE AND INNOVATION SYSTEM (AKIS) IN UKRAINE

European Integration of Ukraine in the Ukrainian aspiration to join the European Union (EU) entails rapprochement with the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the EU. One important element for the attainment of CAP objectives is a strong Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS). This article analyses the describable potential of the AKIS framework in the pre-accession phase of Ukraine. We review current AKIS components, their key issues identified, and strategies to reinforce them. Using a literature review, policy document analysis and expert interviews with key stakeholders that shape the current landscape of Ukrainian agriculture, the analysis was constructed. The results revealed that while UE is well placed as far as AKIS functionality is concerned, there are considerable areas that require improvements. Enhancing synergies between research, extension and farmers, encouraging co-creation of knowledge and harnessing digital technologies are some key steps. An effective AKIS standing behind the Ukrainian agriculture can make the country more productive, sustainable, and competitive improving its compatibility with the EU's CAP mechanisms.

Strengthening smallholder farmers resiliency for improved sustainable productivity of Irish Potatoes in Kenya

Potato industry supports millions of people worldwide and plays a significant role in the global food security. It is an important pillar to Kenyas’ economy. Low yields in potato production is a key challenge in Kenya, with an average yield of 9.8 metric tonnes per hactare, far below other major potato world producers, and therefore need to boost sustainable productivity. Low productivity of potatoes as a key component in agricultural food value chain system is a major concern because of its’ impact on food security. The objective of this review was therefore to establish factors contributing to the low yields and mitigation strategies to strenghten farmers’ resiliency against these challenges for enhanced sustainable productivity. Factors established attributed to the low yields include quality seeds inadequacy, climate change adverse effects, poor agronomic practices, pests, diseases and inadequacy in supportive services. Principles guiding resiliency in socio-ecological systems were considered as a guide to a pathway through which irish potato farmers resiliency can be strengthened against these factors. Mitigation measures identified and recommended include enhancing accessibility of quality seed by farmers; promotion of digital agricultural solutions and advisory services; adaptation of climate smart agricultural innovations practices; capacity building of farmers on good agronomic practices; implementation of developed policies to cushion farmers from exploitation; formation and strengthening of farmer groups and associations; development of appropriate infrastructures; supporting of research and extension. Attention is required to these issues by relevant institutions in effort towards strengthening farmers resiliency for continuous food security and improved farmers livelihood.

Enhancing Muscovy Duck Meat Quality and Growth Development Through Oregano Extract Supplementation: A Study in Agricultural Innovation

This study investigated the effects of oregano extract (OE) supplementation on the growth and meat quality of Muscovy ducks, aiming to optimize meat quality and explore sustainable dietary interventions in poultry production. Twenty-five male Muscovy ducks were meticulously allocated to five treatment groups, each comprising five replications, employing a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Ducks were exposed to varying levels of oregano extract supplementation with five dietary treatments: T0 (control), T1 (25% OE), T2 (50% OE), T3 ( 75% OE), and T4 (100% OE). Throughout the 4-week trial period, individual ducks were accommodated in designated pens to facilitate precise monitoring. The investigation examined several growth parameters, including feed intake (FI, the amount of feed consumed by each duck), feed cost (FC, the expense associated with feeding each duck), weight gain (WG, the increase in body weight of each duck over the specified time period), and feed conversion ratio (FCR, the ratio of feed consumed to weight gained), assessed at weekly intervals. Results showed that OE supplementation did not significantly affect feed intake or weight gain, except for weeks 1 and 2 where T3, supplemented with 75% OE, exhibited the highest weight gain. However, OE supplementation significantly improved FCR, with T3 showing the lowest FCR, indicating enhanced nutrient utilization. Additionally, T3 displayed the highest fasted live weight, dressed weight, and dressing percentage, suggesting improved meat production and quality. Sensory analysis revealed that T3 consistently exhibited favorable meat quality attributes. Overall, T3 demonstrated the highest general acceptability among consumers, based on criteria such as taste, texture, and overall satisfaction. The study highlights the potential of OE supplementation to optimize feed efficiency and enhance meat quality in Muscovy ducks.

Study on the Impact of China's Digital Economy on Agricultural Carbon Emissions

<p _msthash="770" _msttexthash="18511649104"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Under the background of China's “double carbon” goal, digital economy has become an important way to reduce carbon emissions in China. This paper utilizes the provincial panel data of China from 2012 to 2022, introduces the perspective of agricultural science and technology innovation, empirically examines the impact mechanism of regional digital economy development on agricultural carbon emission through regression analysis model, and portrays the dynamic effect and spillover effect of digital economy development on agricultural carbon emission from both time and space dimensions. The empirical results show that: digital economic development will have a significant inhibitory effect on the intensity of agricultural carbon emissions, and the inhibitory effect will be indirectly affected through the path of agricultural scientific and technological innovation; the impact of digital economic development on the intensity of agricultural carbon emissions there is a time lag effect, the current stage of the digital economic development will still have a strong inhibitory effect on the intensity of agricultural carbon emissions in the future; Digital economic development has a spatial spillover effect, i.e., the development of the regional digital economy will have an inhibitory effect on the intensity of agricultural carbon emissions in neighboring provinces. Based on this, it is proposed to strengthen the construction of digital infrastructure, promote the coordinated development of the digital economy in the region, and formulate policies to reduce carbon emissions in agriculture.</span></span></p>

Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to Estimate Technical and Scale Efficiencies of Smallholder Pineapple Farmers in Ghana

This study focuses on evaluating the technical and scale efficiencies of smallholder pineapple farmers in Ghana’s Central Region. We surveyed 320 participants selected using random sampling and applied an input-oriented Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method to gauge their technical, pure, and scale efficiencies. Our findings indicate that the mean technical efficiency among these farmers is 0.505, with individual scores ranging from 0.079 to 1.000. Notably, 90.82% of the farmers are operating below maximum efficiency levels, suggesting a potential input reduction of up to 49.5% while maintaining current production levels. Relaxing the assumption of constant returns under Variable Returns to Scale (VRS) conditions reveals a notable improvement in technical efficiency, with 10.82% more farmers achieving optimal efficiency levels. Furthermore, our analysis highlights scale inefficiencies, with 67.26% of farmers operating below optimal scale levels. By increasing production by 22.8%, these scale-inefficient farmers could enhance their efficiency and productivity within existing technological frameworks. These findings underscore the importance of collaborative efforts among policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders within the agricultural value chain to implement interventions such as improving access to technology and innovation for smallholder farmers and making necessary investments in farmer education and training programs to enhance both technical and scale efficiencies in Ghana’s pineapple sector. Such initiatives can drive sustainable growth, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and bolster the sector’s overall competitiveness.

CiaBOT: the circular design of an experimental microarchitecture between material and immaterial values

The transition to a circular economy entails new challenges for architects and designers. Among these, one challenge is to look at waste not only as new resources, from an environmental perspective, but also as bearers of information capable of communicating their history and origin. Moreover, waste can be considered as a means of activating unexpected knowledge and social connections. The article illustrates a circular design experimentation, conducted with architecture and design students and a wine farm, which led to the creation of the CiaBOT project, a belvedere aimed at enhancing the landscape and providing a temporary stopping point in the Monferrato hills (UNESCO World Heritage Site, Italy). CiaBOT is not only a belvedere but is a microarchitecture capable of conveying both material and immaterial cultural values. Its form and materials are intimately connected with the territory with and for which it was designed. These make CiaBOT a “space” of hybridization and dialogue between agricultural tradition and innovation. But it is also a “space” of fieldwork education and knowledge co-generation in which academic and non-academic stakeholders have measured themselves. Through the description of the different stages of the design process, the article is part of the debate on new sustainable ways of designing and building, reflecting on new models of circular economy based as much on design strategies and processes as on the enhancement of human labor and the use of technologies appropriate to the context and actors.

The amplified effect of market size on innovation: A comparative analysis of pea and wheat seed value chains in France

CONTEXTDespite their interest for agro-ecological transition, grain legumes remain poorly cultivated in France. One reason is the low availability of seed innovations for farmers which, to a large extend, is related to the low incentives to innovate for these crops which represent a small acreage. OBJECTIVEIn this article, we analyze the link between market size and the efforts made to create, diffuse and value innovation. We compare two value chains related to two field crops in France that mainly differ in terms of market size, namely, pea and wheat. Our analysis focuses more specifically on the seed-related innovations created in the upstream part of these value chains. In both of these cases, innovation relies on multiple complementary activities carried out by different actors, including the creation of the innovation, the production and diffusion of technical knowledge, the production and distribution of the innovation, and its valorization by downstream users. METHODSThe two case studies on the pea and wheat sectors were conducted using a qualitative approach based on public documentation, 16 semistructured interviews with various actors in the innovation system of the two value chains and data on commercialized pea and wheat varieties. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONWe show that the level of investment in each of these activities is highly related to market size. This result is first explained by the fact that part (if not all) of the cost of these activities is fixed; that is, these activity costs do not depend on the diffusion of innovation. This result is also explained by the complementarity of these activities, which makes the investment in one activity less beneficial if the investment in complementary activities is low. As a consequence, the effect of market size on innovation is self-reinforcing in those cases where innovation relies on different activities managed by different actors. SIGNIFICANCEIn agricultural sectors, where there is a need for innovations in both large and small markets, this result calls for an evolution of innovation funding mechanisms to attenuate the impact of market size.

Accelerating agricultural innovation in Latin America and the Caribbean: The crucial role of public investment data in science.

In the face of rapid global changes, the agricultural sector in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) stands at a crossroads. The region, known for its rich biodiversity and considerable agricultural output, is increasingly challenged by climate change, political and economic pressures, and the need for efficient and effective innovations to sustain the transformation of agrifood systems toward more sustainable practices.

Kisan Seva: Empowering Farmers with Affordable Agri-Tech Solutions

Abstract – In the contemporary agricultural landscape, access to affordable yet effective agricultural technology remains a critical concern for farmers worldwide. “Kisan Seva” emerges as a pioneering solution aimed at addressing this pressing need, providing a user-friendly platform designed to simplify the process of discovering and acquiring cost-effective agricultural tools and services across diverse categories. Leveraging state-of-the-art technologies such as React.js, MongoDB, and Node.js, Kisan Seva endeavors to revolutionize the way farmers access and adopt agricultural innovations. The essence of Kisan Seva lies in its farmer-centric approach, prioritizing accessibility, affordability, and functionality. Keywords – Kisan Seva Platform, Affordable Agri-Tech, Agricultural Innovation, Farmer Empowerment, Sustainable Agriculture, Digital Marketplace, Agri-Tech Solutions, Farming Tools, Agricultural Equipment, User-Centric Design.

Purchasing Behaviour and Satisfaction Level of Farmers Regarding Groundnut Seeds

India's agricultural sector is a vital pillar of the economy, contributing significantly to the nation's GDP. As the world's largest producer of various commodities like pulses, milk, tea, and spices, and ranking second in fruits, vegetables, and grains, India's agricultural prowess is undeniable. One of the pivotal reasons to this success is the role of seeds, serving as the genetic foundation for plant growth and development. The Indian seed industry, valued at nearly 9000 crores and growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.43%, reflects the nation's commitment to agricultural innovation and advancement. Hybrid seeds, occupying 65% of the market share, are preferred over open-pollinated varieties, driving growth and efficiency in crop production. The study was undertaken with aim and objectives to study the socio-economic profile, purchasing behaviours, satisfaction level and problem faced by the farmers during groundnut crop establishment. A survey of 200 respondents from 10 villages of Dhoraji Taluka, Rajkot district, Gujarat, provides insights into the diverse agricultural community. The study covers demographics, education, income, landholding, cropping patterns, gender distribution, family types, irrigation sources, seed procurement, awareness of agricultural products, promotional influences, factors affecting seed purchases, satisfaction levels, and challenges in crop establishment. Respondents had income mostly between 1-5 lakhs per year. Landholding of the respondents was 1-5 acres. Groundnut was cultivated mainly in the kharif season. Farmers were using various irrigation sources like tube well, open well and canal. Seeds were mainly purchased through various channels like retailers, Agricultural universities, owned seeds and cooperative societies and oil mills. Farmers were facing major problems like higher input costs and prevalence of various disease & pest attack on groundnut crop.